Known for her flawless taste, Serena Fresson is the Director of Design at her daughter’s tableware company, Mrs Alice.

Bringing together an instinctive eye, high-street discoveries and carefully chosen luxury pieces, Serena has turned table settings into works of art. Her thoughtful, joyful approach has helped establish Mrs Alice as the go-to destination for beautiful tableware and accessories. Here, she shares the small, daily luxuries that inspire her and bring her joy.

What is your favourite moment in the day, and why does it feel so special?

First thing in the morning, before the rest of the house stirs. I take the dogs up the drive while the light is still soft and the world feels completely still. There is a quiet peace in those early moments that I try to carry with me through the day.

Is there a daily ritual you return to that helps you feel calm or centred?

My first cup of tea. It’s a small moment which I treasure, but to be honest, nothing really grounds me! Many would agree.

What is a scent that instantly transports you to another time or place?

Freshly cut grass. It takes me straight back to the long, bright afternoons of my childhood in Australia.

Do you have a favourite flower and what draws you to them?

I don’t think I could choose just one. I love the tumbling softness and colour of plumbago, the perfume of home grown English roses, and the simple charm of a daisy. They each bring their own individual kind of joy.

Is there a place in your home that feels especially restorative?

My dressing table. I love sitting in my dressing room surrounded by all my lotions and potions, always on the journey to find the perfect anti-ageing routine - still unsolved.

What is the luxury in your life that feels entirely non-negotiable?

Regular blowdries - I’m simply not myself with bad hair. I have a hand-painted ‘saying’ in my dressing room: “If I can’t control my hair, how can I control my life?”

What does a comfort meal look like for you?

A margherita pizza with fresh prosciutto, rocket and parmesan. Simple, but perfect.

What feels most precious to you at this stage of your life?

My family. It always has and always will be. We are a happy, tight unit, and I feel truly blessed for that. I am also so grateful for the opportunity to work with my daughter Alice and to be part of such a wonderful growing brand like Mrs Alice. Who knew I would have a full time job at 65 and love it so much!

Are there small sensory pleasures that bring you disproportionate joy?

Walking barefoot. I avoid shoes whenever I can. I love the feel of grass underfoot or sand when I’m by the sea - and always with a good pedicure.

Is there a GROVE England product you return to again and again — how does it make you feel?

I am completely obsessed with the Anemone Bath Oil. It relaxes me in the evening and somehow feels invigorating in the morning, the scent lingers beautifully on one's skin. I am a committed bath person - very happily having one twice a day.

Is there something from the past that still has the power to move you?

One piece that never fails to move me is For the Beauty of the Earth by John Rutter. My daughters all went to Heathfield School, and the choir would perform it on their final day. The school choir sang it at Alice and Tom’s wedding, hearing it in that moment felt like everything coming full circle.

Proof that it’s never too late to begin again, and that the things we cherish most tend to find us right on time. If you’d like to see more of Serena’s beautiful work and the joyful, artful table settings she creates with Mrs Alice, you can take a peek here.